Sheena Jackson

They’re not identical but, to friends, family and people in Faughanvale, they will always be known as ‘the triplets’.

And for Kasie, Ellie and Codie McCafferty, that’s just fine.

School's out for triplets Ellie, Kasie and Codie McCafferty as they leave Faughanvale Primary School to start their secondary education at St Mary's Limavady in September. INLV2715-059KDR Photo: Ken Reay

“We’re close, and going through school we’ve always been known as ‘the triplets’,” says Codie. “We’ve always been supporting each other and, if someone gets in trouble, we help each other out.”

Eldest of the three born on July 14, 2003, is Kasie. She was born exactly one minute ahead of her sister Ellie at 12.01. Codie was born at 12.03 and there was a pound and a half between them. Kasie at 5lbs, Ellie weighed 61/2lbs and Codie an even 6lbs.

When they were born, mum Rosi said it was hard going having triple the work at the one time, alongside their sisters Shannon and Amy, but says she wouldn’t change a thing.

The girls are finishing their primary education after seven years at Faughanvale PS, a school and staff which Rosi says has been brilliant to the girls. They have shared the same class from P1 and, come September, all three girls will begin their secondary education at St. Mary’s, Limavady.

In Primary one - Codie, Kasie and Ellie.

“I like being a triplet because we’re really close and it’s different, because not everyone is a twin or triplet. We’re kind of special,” said Kasie.

“I like being triplets because when we go into secondary school we have each other forever,” said Ellie. “We’re very close and I don’t know any other triplets, so it’s special.”

Rosi admits with the triplets came triple the expense over the years for milestones such as First Holy Communion, Confirmation and birthdays,but it also meant triple the joy and pride.

“When they were babies it was hard going but, now they’re older, it’s a lot easier, although going into secondary school there is a a lot of expense with uniforms. They’re all going to St. Mary’s in Limavady, and they are so close and they will be in the same class. They were nervous about being separated because they’ve always been together,” said Rosi, adding: “They love being triplets. They are so close and if one is off, or if they’re sick a day, the other two feel it. Kasie missed out on their P7 trip and the other two weren’t excited at all about it because she wasn’t there to share it with them.

Rosi added: “I found out I was having triplets at my first scan, so it was a bit of a shock but it was all worth it in the end up. It was hard going, but I did it, and they’re great wains. I am so proud of them. They’ve made my life complete along with Amy (14) and Shannon (17).”